Brahmavihara Arama
Enjoy A Spiritual Journey by Visiting Bali’s Largest Monastery That Combines the Beauty of Balinese Architecture and Buddhist Teachings
Visit Bali’s Largest Monastery
Brahmavihara Arama is the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali, also known as Banjar Buddhist Temple. This monastery was built since the independence era and has become a symbol of tolerance and pluralism in the country. The founder, Ida Ketut Jelantik, was a writer who served in the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The monastery was officially established in 1917 and occupies an area of around 9 hectares.
In this area, there are various interesting buildings such as pagodas, kuti, meditation halls, bells, dharma sala, and other supporting facilities. The temple is also decorated with many Buddhist stupas and statues. One of the main attractions is a beautiful round pond with a fountain and lotus flowers symbolizing purity.
Not just for Buddhists, the monastery is open to anyone who wants to seek inner peace and enlightenment. This is what makes Brahmavihara Arama one of the Buleleng Interesting Places to Visit that is visited by many different religions, making it a real symbol of cultural harmony and tolerance.
The Meaning Behind the Name of Brahmavihara Arama
The name Brahmavihara Arama comes from three words: Brahma means something great, praiseworthy, and very noble. Vihara means a way of life and Arama means place.
Combined, the name means a place to train oneself in developing noble and praiseworthy behaviors. These behaviors include the four virtues of Metta (loving-kindness), Karuna (compassion), Mudita (sympathy), and Upekkha (equanimity). These four values can be explored, internalized, and practiced through Vipassana Bhavana meditation, which is the core of the monastery’s activities.
History of Brahmavihara Arama
Brahmavihara Arama was first established in 1958 by Bikku Giri Rakito Tera near the Banjar Hot Springs area, on borrowed land. However, as the number of Buddhists grew, this initial location was deemed inadequate and disturbed by the surrounding crowds.
In 1970, Bikku Giri purchased new land in Banjar Tegeha Village, Banjar District. Construction of the monastery began in November 1970 and was first used for services in May 1971. The name Brahmavihara Arama was given to reflect its function as the “Garden of Sublime Brahma Peace”, a place of meditation and cultivation of noble qualities.
The monastery is located in a hilly area with soothing natural scenery. Surrounded by rice fields, sea and mountains, the location offers a cool and refreshing atmosphere that supports the practice of meditation. Visitors, both local and foreign, often visit this monastery to meditate or simply enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature.
Location and Route to Brahmavihara Arama
Brahmavihara Arama is located in Banjar Tegeha Village, Banjar District, Buleleng Regency, Bali. This place is about 19 km from Singaraja City to the west, with a travel time of about 30 minutes using a private vehicle.
The monastery is located on a plateau with an altitude of about 300 meters above sea level. The monastery area has a land area of 35 are, while the rest is a plantation. This location presents beautiful views of rice fields, sea and mountains, as well as fresh air which adds to its appeal as a spiritual and recreational tourist destination.
Attractions of Brahmavihara Arama
As the largest monastery in Bali, Brahmavihara Arama offers various attractions, including:
- Architecture with Hindu Nuances
Although it is a Buddhist monastery, the building is characterized by Hindu architecture. This reflects cultural acculturation, given that the monastery was built in 1969 in a predominantly Hindu area. This uniqueness is a special attraction for tourists.
- Buddhist Iconic Spots
Inside the monastery area, there are many Buddha statues, including the statue in the center of the pond decorated with lotus flowers. In addition, there is the Dharmasala as a study room, and the Uposthagara, which houses a statue of the Buddha as well as wall carvings depicting the story of the Buddha’s birth.
- Large Garden Area
The temple has a beautiful garden with a replica of Borobudur Temple complete with five stupas on the south side. Visitors can climb the stairs to the highest peak to enjoy a panoramic view of Lovina Beach from a distance.
Things to Do
While in the Brahmavihara Arama area, visitors can do several activities such as:
- Meditate by using a cushion that can be taken out while sitting.
- Going around to see the beauty of the stupas at the foot of the hill.
- Exploring the mango and sawo plantations around the monastery area.
- Enjoying the beauty of the round pond that has been equipped with a fountain and lotus flowers.
Visiting Tips
The visiting tips that Bali Touristic has summarized so that you better understand how to visit properly:
- Avoid visiting tourist attractions during the rainy season as there are many open areas.
- Use comfortable footwear as there are several areas to explore.
- Try meditating and enjoying the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere at some of the designated spots.
- Respect other visitors who are worshiping or meditating by keeping quiet and not making noise.
- Make sure your body condition is fit because this area has many interesting spots that can be explored.
Operating Hours, Ticket Prices, and Facilities
- Operating Hours: Opened every day, from 08.00 – 18.00 WITA.
- Ticket Price: Around IDR 20,000 (price may change at any time).
- Facilities:
- Adequate parking area.
- Public restrooms.
- Fabric loaner (shawl and sarong) for visitors.
